Bersatu will be given chance to defend itself before PN takes action — Rafique

MELAKA: Bersatu leaders should remain patient and refrain from making assumptions about possible disciplinary action by Perikatan Nasional (PN) against the party after the Melaka election.

Parti Pejuang Tanah Air (Pejuang) information chief Muhammad Rafique Rashid Ali said Bersatu would be given an opportunity to explain its position and defend itself before any decision was made.

He said, as stated by PN chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar, the coalition was gathering evidence related to allegations of misconduct before taking further action.

"Yesterday, Datuk Seri Samsuri made it clear that PN would take disciplinary action, but evidence must first be gathered because we do not want to punish anyone without proof.

"So, while the evidence is being gathered, Tun Faisal (Datuk Tun Faisal Ismail Aziz) and his fellow Bersatu members should be patient and not jump the gun.

"You will be given the opportunity to respond. We (PN) will give you the right to explain your side and defend yourself before making a decision.

"So, to Bersatu, wait until the letter arrives because we want to settle the Melaka state election first," he said.

He was speaking to reporters after a press conference announcing the manifesto offers of PN candidates for the Melaka election at the Melaka Pas State Liaison Office.

He was responding to a statement by Tun Faisal, who had urged Pas to prove that it had not violated the PN constitution or denied members their rights before proceeding with disciplinary action against Bersatu.